Mascherano Breaks Silence: The Real Reason Messi Played For Inter Miami But Missed Argentina Clash

Lionel Messi once again showed why he remains the heartbeat of Inter Miami, scoring twice in their dominant 4-0 victory over Atlanta United in the early hours of Saturday — just 24 hours after sitting out Argentina’s friendly win over Venezuela.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The 38-year-old World Cup winner had been called up by Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni for their doubleheader against Venezuela and Puerto Rico. Although Messi trained with the national team throughout the week, he was left out of the lineup for Friday’s 1-0 win at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.

Scaloni later clarified that Messi’s absence was a tactical decision, explaining that he wanted to test the striking partnership between Lautaro Martínez and Julián Álvarez.

However, fans were left stunned when Messi appeared in Inter Miami’s starting XI the very next day. Addressing the confusion, Miami coach Javier Mascherano shed light on how the decision unfolded.

“Yesterday, before the match, I spoke with [Argentina coach Lionel] Scaloni, and he confirmed he wouldn’t be using Messi,” Mascherano explained. “So, I talked to Leo to see if he felt ready to play — and it was entirely his decision. Since he wasn’t going to feature for Argentina, we agreed he could help the team. As always, Leo was ready.”

Messi, showing no hint of fatigue, produced a sensational display. He opened the scoring in the 39th minute with a trademark curling finish and added a second in the 87th to seal the win.

His brace took his tally to 26 goals for the season, putting him atop the MLS scoring chart. He also assisted Jordi Alba’s goal, while Luis Suárez rounded off the rout against a flat Atlanta United side.

“He’s a truly special player — an icon,” Mascherano said. “Even though he didn’t train with us all week, he came in and made the difference. That’s what defines him.”

With the win, Inter Miami — already guaranteed a playoff berth — remain third in the Eastern Conference, level on points with second-placed FC Cincinnati.